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Flu responsible for more deaths

Not too late to get vaccinated

For the Headlight

Posted:
01/23/2014 03:52:01 PM MST

SANTA FE >> The New Mexico Department of Health confirms more flu deaths for the 2013-2014 season. New deaths reported are a 79-year-old man and a 73-year -old man from Bernalillo County and a 45-year-old man from Rio Arriba County.

"Getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the dangers and complications flu can cause," said Department of Health Cabinet Secretary Retta Ward, MPH. "I'm also encouraging everyone to wash their hands frequently. Also, remember to sneeze or cough into your upper sleeve or elbow, rather than into your hand."

If you do become sick, there are drugs that can be used to treat the flu. These drugs may lessen symptoms and may shorten the time you are sick. They also may prevent hospitalizations and flu complications, such as pneumonia and death. If you think you have the flu, your doctor can determine if you should receive antiviral drugs. These drugs work best if started within two days of being sick but may help even if not received right away.

The predominant circulating flu strain in New Mexico and the United States is influenza H1N1. This strain was first identified in 2009 and may cause severe illness even in healthy young adults. The New Mexico Department of Health is urging everyone six months of age and older to see their doctor or pharmacist about getting a flu vaccine. The vaccine is currently available and protects against H1N1 and other strains of flu.

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The Department of Health has 29 providers statewide that report influenza-like illnesses (fever with cough or sore throat) from October through May. Providers that participate in this surveillance network reported that for the week ending January 18, 2014, 5.6% of their patient visits were for influenza-like illness.

To find out more about flu vaccination clinics throughout New Mexico, you can call the Immunization Hotline toll free at (866) 681 5872. For more information about influenza, visit the Department's website: http://nmhealth.org/flu/index.shtml.

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